12/31/08

12/30/08

Greetings from Rhinelander, WI. Today we walked on water, traversing the frozen lake and observing the ways of the local ice fishermen...no red flags raised on our watch however. I heart winter in WI.*rare photo of Leonard with dark ear raised, taken by Les.

I'm not sure when it will be ok to play the Violent Femmes at a party again, or when I'll be at a party again, but suffice to say I was and am still a fan, I even bought into the solo projects. In any case when in Milwaukee...

12/26/08

The Wisconsin Historical Society is in the process of digitally archiving the entire collection of glass plate photographs by Charles Van Shaick, a portion of which were unearthed/edited by Michael Lesy for his brilliant Wisconsin Death Trip publication (Pantheon Books, 1973). View the WDT set here. Paperback version of WDT available here.

12/18/08

The Courage Campaign is enlisting folks to attend screenings of MILK across California this Saturday, followed by a candlelight vigil. Spread the word/take action-Let Love In! Details here.*Milk and...Twinkies post on ANDAHALF.

Not sure that my father would see a quality Danish knit sweater as a necessity for excursions on the open sea, but I can go there. S.N.S Herning have been doing things the right way since the 30's, and are now re-issuing many of their classic designs. Production is limited and each garment tag is signed by the artisan at the loom/helm. Available at Opening Ceremony (on sale) and via S.N.S direct.

12/16/08

Black Sea has me falling deep into the Fennesz hole...a place I haven't been since 2001's Endless Summer (Mego). It's also got me remembering all night studio specials with Hotel Paral.lel bouncing between the walls on repeat at 200 Getrude Street, 1998...hello D!

"Fennesz does with sound what Stan Brakhage did with film, altering its very fabric and texture, employing disorder and error as forms of communication and expression. He forces you to learn a different method of perception and interpretation, to look beneath the chaos that seems to govern the movements of life and find the patterns beneath.” [Nick Southall]

12/14/08

It was so dark when I left this morning for the Rose Bowl, that I arrived wearing Lesley's Barbour jacket instead of mine (his and hers, 32-34 whatever), I was also the only one there without a headlamp...next time. Finds-

Promising promotional clip for KILLSPENCER, the forthcoming label from Art Center lad Spencer Nikosey...in his own words- I am launching a higher end conscious product line and will be manufacturing in Los Angeles. Starting with backpacks, messenger bags, and some smaller accessory products, the KILLSPENCER brand uses the most unique sustainable materials, the best zippers, buckles and clasps, and is truly a functional piece of art. Each product is signed and numbered and every detail of the design has been considered.Looking forward to seeing more...thanks Spencer for the link, and also Tilde Blog.

12/13/08

Eary 70's Sierra Designs day backpack, cordura with leather bottom and felt lined seat belt type straps, nabbed on ebay. I like this design with the smaller pocket being on top of the main compartment, hello ipod/headphones, camera etc. Feeling the quality, and chasing gear made in CA, OR and CO from this period.